Travel sickness — also called motion sickness — affects millions of people every year. Whether you're in a car, on a ferry, or boarding a plane, that familiar wave of nausea can take the joy out of travelling. The good news is there are effective ways to prevent and manage it, from simple lifestyle tips to pharmacy-approved medicines. Travel sickness occurs when there's a disconnect between the sensory signals the brain receives from the inner ear, eyes, and other body parts. These conflicting signals confuse the brain, leading to symptoms such as:

·       Nausea

·       Vomiting

·       Dizziness

·       Sweating

·       Fatigue

Common symptoms include:

·       Nausea and vomiting

·       Dizziness and light-headedness

·       Cold sweats and pale skin

·       Vertigo

Ginger
One of the best-studied natural remedies. Try ginger capsules, chews, tea, or candied ginger before and during travel.

Acupressure wristbands

Applying gentle pressure to the P6 point on your inner wrist may help ease nausea. Safe for all ages with no side effects.

Fresh air & positioning

Sit in the front of a car, over the wing on a plane, or at the middle of a boat. Open a window or face an air vent.

Fix your gaze
Focus on a stable point in the distance — the horizon at sea, or the road ahead. Avoid screens or books while moving.

Controlled breathing
Deep, slow diaphragmatic breathing — inhale for 4 counts, hold, exhale for 4 — helps reduce nausea and anxiety.

Eat & drink wisely
Avoid heavy, spicy, or fatty meals before travel. Nibble on plain crackers and sip cold water or a caffeine-free fizzy drink.

HEBA Online Pharmacy treatment options:

• Hyoscine
  Kwells tablets · Scopoderm patch
• Cinnarizine
  Stugeron 15 mg tablets
• Promethazine
  Avomine · Phenergan

Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Our GPhC-registered pharmacists at HEBA Online Pharmacy are here to help. Complete a short consultation and we'll recommend the most suitable option for your journey, age, and health history — with fast UK delivery.

All travel sickness medicines can cause drowsiness — do not drive after taking them until you know how they affect you. Avoid alcohol with all medications. These medicines are not recommended in pregnancy without GP advice. Always read the patient information leaflet.